Industrial Strategy good news for engineering and construction

New vision welcomed by industry professionals

The focus on technical education provision, support for institutes of technology and the push to increase STEM skills outlined in the UK Government’s draft Industrial Strategy have been welcomed by the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB).

Following the launch of the Government’s proposals earlier this week, Chris Claydon, chief executive of the ECITB, said: “The engineering construction industry plays a crucial role in the delivery and maintenance of the UK’s critical infrastructure and makes a vital contribution to the UK economy.

“Government’s renewed focus on investment in infrastructure, supporting innovation and boosting skills should reap benefits right across the range of engineering construction sectors.

“The focus on technical education provision, the support earmarked for Institutes of Technology and the push to increase STEM skills are particularly welcome.

“Driving and supporting the acquisition of skills will be vital to meeting the challenges of boosting growth, securing the UK’s long-term competitiveness and in contributing to personal employability and social mobility.

“As with other industries, new technology and ways of working are altering the skills needs and landscape of the engineering construction industry.

“As the statutory training board, ECITB will play a leading role in upskilling and reskilling the workforce and in anticipating and responding to emerging skills needs.

“We will continue to work with industry and government to raise skill levels, increase transferable skills and drive up productivity in engineering construction.”

Hannah Hamilton, who is a former Fife College student, is a reporter and assistant content editor for Scotland B2B, specialising in B2B news and features. She can be contacted via editorial@scotlandb2b-eastcoast.co.uk